Baptism at the Vineyard

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM?

It illustrates Christ's death and resurrection."Christ died for our sins ... He was buried ... and he rose again." 1 Cor. 15:3-4"For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ." Col. 2:12

It illustrates my new life with God through Christ.When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun, 2 Cor. 5:17"By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared in His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead ... so also we may live a new life!" Romans 6:4

Baptism doesn't make you a believer - it shows that you already believe. Baptism does not "save" you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding - it's the public statement of the personal commitment you made in your heart.

WHY SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?

To publicly express my commitment to Christ."... many of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized." Acts 18:8

To follow the example set by Christ."At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river." Mark 1:9

To obey Christ's command."Jesus said, 'Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.'" Matthew 28:19-20

WHEN SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?

As soon as you have believed!"Those who believed ... were baptized ... that day!" Acts 2:41

"Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, 'Look, here is water, Why shouldn't I be baptized right now?' Philip said, 'If you believe with all your heart, you may.' The man answered, 'I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.' So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him." Acts 8:35-38

There is no reason to delay. As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized. If you wait until you are "perfect", you'll never feel "good enough"!